Bucs agree to terms with Bears S Major Wright

Bears safety Major Wright is returning to the state where he played collegiately, agreeing to terms on a one-year deal with the Bucs.

The former Florida Gators star had 100 tackles, two forced fumbles and two interceptions in 15 games with the Bears last season. He will provide depth for the Bucs behind safeties Mark Barron and Dashon Goldson.

Wright will be reunited with coach Lovie Smith, whom he played under in Chicago from 2010-12. Wright was a third round pick by the Bears out of Florida in 2010.

Wright also will rejoin Smith's his son Mikal, Tampa Bay's safeties coach, and cornerbacks coach Gill Byrd, who had the same position in Chicago. Wright has nine interceptions in the last three seasons, with 42 starts in that span as well. He was born in Fort Lauderdale and was part of Florida's national championship squad in 2008.

The Bucs also are believed to be close to deal with former Titans and Chargers receiver Lavelle Hawkins, who worked out for the team on Friday.

Hawkins played for Bucs offensive coordinator Jeff Tedford at California. His best season came in 2012 when he caught 47 passes for 470 yards and one touchdown.

About the blog

Tampa Bay Buccaneers fans: Keep up with your team news on Bucs Beat, our blog for all things Bucs. Tampa Bay Times sports writers keep you posted on the latest Bucs news, and you can weigh in with your own thoughts.